150 Years of Beers

Saint John, New Brunswick boasts a proud 150-year brewing history. The city’s thriving port and industrial economy in the 19th century laid the groundwork for the hotel of the Porter Brewery in 1867 and the emergence of the Oland Brewery in the 1880s. Today, this rich history is reflected in the growing number of local brewpubs and taverns, each showcasing their own evolution of brewing techniques and beloved regional brands. It’s a story of cultural significance, economic development, and the enduring appeal of a good pint.

Good To Know

• The tour explores Saint John’s brewing heritage spanning over 150 years, from the founding of Porter Brewery in 1867 to the modern craft beer scene.
• Participants will visit historic landmarks like the Saint John City Market and learn about the impact of pioneering breweries on the city’s culture.
• The tour includes tastings at renowned local breweries, such as Moosehead Brewery, and provides insights into unique brewing techniques and the evolution of beloved local brands.
• The thriving port and industrial economy of Saint John supported the growth of commercial brewing, leading to the emergence of market leaders like Oland Brewery in the 1880s.
• The tour highlights the vibrant beer culture in Saint John, including the development of neighborhood brewpubs and taverns that reflected the city’s rich brewing history.

Tour Overview

The "150 Years of Beers" tour takes travelers on a journey through the rich brewing history of Saint John, Canada.

Starting at the Germain St entrance of the Saint John City Market, the tour explores the city’s iconic beer scene, culminating at the Saint John Ale House.

With a maximum of 16 participants and a minimum age of 19, the tour offers an immersive experience for beer enthusiasts.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller friendly, and service animals are allowed.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required upon check-in, and the tour includes alcoholic beverages, making it an engaging and informative experience for most travelers.

Booking Details

Booking the "150 Years of Beers" tour costs €70.21 per person. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience begins. Payment is made through a reserve now, pay later option.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed, and it’s near public transportation.

Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to join. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required upon check-in.

The tour includes alcoholic beverages, and most travelers can participate.

Accessibility and Restrictions

As the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it may not be suitable for all travelers.

However, the tour does accommodate strollers and service animals. Plus, the tour is located near public transportation, making it accessible for those who prefer not to drive.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, and proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required upon check-in.

• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation

Reviews and Ratings

Reviewing the tours’ performance, visitors have provided a stellar 5.0-star rating based on 2 total reviews. The feedback highlights the tour’s exceptional quality, with all reviewers awarding the maximum 5-star rating. This solid track record demonstrates the tour’s consistent ability to exceed traveler expectations.

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The reviews have been verified, ensuring the credibility and trustworthiness of the ratings. Travelers can feel confident in booking this tour, which appears to deliver an outstanding experience.

Tour Highlights

Journey through 150 years of brewing history on this one-of-a-kind beer tour in Saint John, Canada.

Over the course of 2-2.5 hours, you’ll visit iconic locations, sample local brews, and learn about the city’s rich beer legacy.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the historic Saint John City Market, the oldest continuing farmers’ market in Canada
• Stopping at the Ale House, a modern gastropub housed in a former warehouse
• Discovering the stories behind Saint John’s pioneering breweries and how they shaped the city’s culture

This tour offers a unique opportunity to taste and learn about the evolution of beer in this maritime province.

Local Breweries

Exploring the local brewing scene is a highlight of the 150 Years of Beers tour. Participants visit several renowned breweries, tracing the evolution of beer-making in the region over the past century and a half.

The tour includes tastings at the Saint John Ale House, known for its exceptional craft brews, and the Moosehead Brewery, a historic operation that has been quenching thirsty locals since 1867.

Along the way, guests learn about the unique brewing techniques and the stories behind these beloved local brands.

Historical Context

Saint John’s rich beer history dates back over 150 years, tracing its origins to the late 19th century.

The city’s thriving port and industrial economy fostered a vibrant brewing industry, with local establishments catering to thirsty workers and merchants.

Key historical highlights include:

• The founding of the Porter Brewery in 1867, one of the earliest commercial breweries in the region.
• The emergence of the Oland Brewery in the 1880s, which would become a dominant player in the Maritime beer market.
• The opening of numerous smaller neighborhood brewpubs and taverns, reflecting Saint John’s reputation as a hub of social and cultural activity.

This deep-rooted beer tradition paved the way for the city’s modern craft beer renaissance.

Getting There

The tour’s meeting point is the Germain St entrance of the Saint John City Market, located at 36 Germain St, Saint John, NB E2L 2E5.

The tour ends at the Saint John Ale House, just a short walk away at 1 Market Square, Saint John, NB E2L 4Z6.

The tour is accessible by public transportation, though the market and ale house are also within walking distance for those able.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required upon check-in, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

The maximum number of participants is 16, and the minimum age is 19 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Beers Will Be Sampled on the Tour?

The tour features samplings of various local and regional craft beers from Saint John breweries. Participants will have the opportunity to taste a range of beer styles, from ales and lagers to seasonal and specialty offerings.

How Long Does the Tour Last?

The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours. Guests will visit several local breweries and sample a variety of beers throughout the experience, which concludes at the Saint John Ale House.

Are Food Options Available During the Tour?

The tour does not include food options, but participants can purchase food at the Saint John Ale House, which is the end point of the tour. Alcohol beverages are provided during the 150 Years of Beers walking tour.

Can Participants Purchase Beer to Take Home?

Participants can’t purchase beer to take home during the 150 Years of Beers tour. The tour focuses on sampling different beers at local venues, but doesn’t provide an opportunity for participants to purchase beer for off-site consumption.

What Should Participants Bring With Them?

Participants should bring a valid government-issued ID to verify their age. They may also want to dress comfortably for walking and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

The Sum Up

Saint John’s brewing history dates back 150 years, reflecting the cultural significance of beer in the community. Visitors can explore this rich heritage on a guided tour, discovering the evolution of local breweries and beloved brands. With a growing number of brewpubs and taverns, the city continues to showcase its brewing expertise and vibrant beer culture.